Fashion icons Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen have joined the search for a missing New York designer.

The twins have reached out to fans through their fashion label Elizabeth and James' Twitter.com account, urging followers to "spread the word" about 31-year-old James Ott's disappearance.

Ott was last seen at his Brooklyn home on Saturday night (22Mar14), according to the New York Post.

Police were called when he failed to show up for work at The Dock Group on Monday (24Mar13).

Ott previously worked for the Olsen twins' high-end fashion line The Row.

Friends of the missing designer have set up a Facebook page, Find Jay Ott, to spread the word about his disappearance.

A message on the site reads: "Jay's family and friends are extremely concerned and anxious to receive any word regarding Jay's health and safety. His health and safety are our primary concern. If he is seeking help and confidentiality is a concern, we understand, but we would love to hear that he is safe."

The retweet sent out via the Olsen sisters' label reads: "please spread the word Rt @Fashionista_com Missing: Where is Nyc fashion designer Jay Ott?"